APsystems QS1 User manual

Brand: APsystems

Model: QS1

Type: User manual

APsystems QS1 is a microinverter used in utility-interactive grid-tied applications, enabling the conversion of DC power generated by solar panels into AC power that can be fed into the utility grid. It features a compact design, is easy to install, and provides real-time monitoring and diagnostics through the ECU and the Enlighten monitoring platform. The QS1 is designed to maximize solar energy production and improve system efficiency, making it an ideal choice for residential and commercial solar installations.

Installation / User Manual

Rev 1.0

(For APAC)

ALTENERGY POWER SYSTEM Inc.

WEB: global.APsystems.com

APsystems Australia

Suite 502, 8 Help Street, Chatswood NSW 2067 Australia

TEL: 61 (0)2-8034-6587 EMAIL: [email protected]

APsystems QS1 Microinverter

Please scan the QR code to get

mobile app and more support

to help the installation.

Table of Contents

1.Important Safety Instructions................................................................................................................................... 3

1.1 Safety Instructions..................................................................................................................................................... 3

1.2 Radio Interference Statement................................................................................................................................... 4

1.3 Symbols replace words on the equipment, on a display, or in manuals.................................................................. 5

2.APsystems Microinverter System Introduction........................................................................................................ 6

2.APsystems Microinverter System Introduction........................................................................................................ 7

3.APsystems Microinverter QS1 Introduction............................................................................................................. 8

4.APsystems Microinverter System Installation.......................................................................................................... 9

4.1 Additional Installation components from APsystems...............................................................................................9

4.2 Required Parts and Tools from you...........................................................................................................................9

4.3 Installation Procedures............................................................................................................................................10

4.3.1 Step 1 - Verify the grid voltage to match with microinverter rating............................................................10

4.3.2 Step 2 - The AC bus distribution................................................................................................................... 10

4.3.3 Step 3 - Attach the APsystems Microinverters to the racking......................................................................10

4.3.4 Step 4 - Ground the system.......................................................................................................................... 10

4.3.5 Stpe 5 - Connect the APsystems microinverter to AC bus cable..................................................................11

4.3.6 Step 6 - Install a AC bus protective end cap at the end of AC bus cable......................................................11

4.3.7 Step 7 - Connect APsystems Microinverters to the PV Modules................................................................. 12

4.3.8 Step 8 - Complete the APsystems installation map..................................................................................... 12

5.APsystems microinverter system operating instructions....................................................................................... 14

6.Troubleshooting....................................................................................................................................................... 15

6.1 Status Indications and Error Reporting................................................................................................................... 15

6.1.1 Start up LED.................................................................................................................................................. 15

6.1.2 Operation LED...............................................................................................................................................15

6.1.3 GFDI Error..................................................................................................................................................... 15

6.1.4 Other Faults.................................................................................................................................................. 15

6.2 Troubleshooting a non-operating APsystems Microinverter.................................................................................. 16

6.3 Maintenance............................................................................................................................................................ 16

7.Replace a microinverter...........................................................................................................................................17

8.Technical Data.......................................................................................................................................................... 18

8.1 QS1 Microinverter Datasheet.................................................................................................................................. 19

9.Wiring Diagram........................................................................................................................................................ 20

10. QS1200 Accessory................................................................................................................................................. 21

10.1 Wiring Diagram...................................................................................................................................................... 21

10. 2 Accessories Summary........................................................................................................................................... 22

QS1 Installation/User Manual

1.Important Safety Instructions

This manual contains important instructions to follow during installation and maintenance of the

APsystems Photovoltaic Grid-connected Inverter (Microinverter). To reduce the risk of electrical

shock and ensure the safe installation and operation of the APsystems Microinverter, the following

symbols appear throughout this document to indicate dangerous conditions and important safety

instructions Specifications subject to change without notice - please ensure you are using the most

recent update found at www.APsystems.com.

This indicates a situation where failure to follow instructions may cause a serious

hardware failure or personnel danger if not applied appropriately. Use extreme

caution when performing this task.

This indicates information that is important for optimized microinverter operation.

Follow these instructions closely.

1.1 Safety Instructions

Do NOT disconnect the PV module from the APsystems Microinverter without first

disconnecting the AC power.

Only qualified professionals should install and/or replace APsystems Microinverters.

Perform all electrical installations in accordance with local electrical codes.

Before installing or using the APsystems Microinverter, please read all instructions and

cautionary markings in the technical documents and on the APsystems Microinverter system

and the solar-array.

Be aware that the body of the APsystems Microinverter is the heat sink and can reach a

temperature of 80°C. To reduce risk of burns, do not touch the body of the Microinverter.

Do NOT attempt to repair the APsystems Microinverter. If it fails, contact APsystems Customer

Support to obtain an RMA number and start the replacement process. Damaging or opening the

APsystems Microinverter will void the warranty.

Caution!

when the photovoltaic array is exposed to light, it supplies a d.c. voltage to the PCE.

Please install isolation switching devices on the AC side of the inverter.

QS1 Installation/User Manual

1.Important Safety Instructions

1.2 Radio Interference Statement

CE EMC Compliance ：The equipment can comply with CE EMC, which are designed to protect

against harmful interference in a residential installation. The equipment could radiate radio

frequency energy and this might cause harmful interference to radio communications if not following

the instructions when installing and using the equipment. But there is no guarantee that

interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment causes harmful interference

to radio or television reception, the following measures might resolve the issues:

A) Relocate the receiving antenna and keep it well away from the equipment.

B) Consult the dealer or an experienced radio / TV technical for help.

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance may void

the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

QS1 Installation/User Manual

1.Important Safety Instructions

1.3 Symbols replace words on the equipment, on a display, or in manuals

Trademark.

Caution, risk of electric shock.

Caution, hot surface.

Refer to the operating instructions.

NOTICE, danger!

This device directly connected with electricity generators and public grid.

Qualified

personnel

Person adequately advised or supervised by an electrically skilled person to

enable him or her to perceive risks and to avoid hazards which electricity can

create. For the purpose of the safety information of this manual, a "qualified

person" is someone who is familiar with requirements for safety, refrigeration

system and EMC and is authorized to energize, ground, and tag equipment,

systems, and circuits in accordance with established safety procedures. The

inverter and endues system may only be commissioned and operated by

qualified personnel.

QS1 Installation/User Manual

2.APsystems Microinverter System Introduction

The APsystems Microinverter is used in utility-interactive grid-tied applications, comprised of three

key elements:

APsystems Microinverter

APsystems Energy Communication Unit (ECU)

APsystems Energy Monitor and Analysis (EMA) web-based monitoring and analysis system

Figure 1

QS1 Installation/User Manual

2.APsystems Microinverter System Introduction

This integrated system improves safety; maximizes solar energy harvest; increases system reliability,

and simplifies solar system design, installation, maintenance, and management.

APsystems Microinverters maximize PV energy production

Each PV module has individual Maximum Peak Power Tracking (MPPT) controls, which ensures

that the maximum power is produced to the utility grid regardless of the performance of the other

PV modules in the array. When PV modules in the array are affected by shade, dust, orientation, or

any situation in which one module underperforms compared with the other units, the APsystems

Microinverter ensures top performance from the array by maximizing the performance of each

module within the array.

More reliable than centralized or string inverters

The distributed APsystems Microinverter system ensures that no single point of system failure

exists across the PV system. APsystems Microinverters are designed to operate at full power at

ambient outdoor temper-atures of up to 149°F (65°C). The inverter housing is designed for outdoor

installation and complies with the IP67 environmental enclosure rating.

Simple to install

You can install individual PV modules in any combination of module quantity,orientation, type, and

power rate.

Smart system performance monitoring and analysis

The APsystems Energy Communication Unit (ECU) is installed by simply plugging it into any wall

outlet and providing an Ethernet or Wi-Fi connection to abroad band router or modem. After

installing the ECU, the full network of APsystems Microinverters automatically reports to the

APsystems Energy Monitor and Analysis (EMA) web server. The EMA software displays

performance trends,informs you of abnormal events, and controls system shutdown when it is

needed. (See ECU manual for instructions.)

QS1 Installation/User Manual

3.APsystems Microinverter QS1 Introduction

The APsystems QS1 Microinverters connects with the single-phase grid, and can also use multiple

APsystems Microinverters in the form of single-phase grid to achieve three-phase grid, and operates

with most 60 and 72 cell PV modules.Contact APsystems Customer Support for checking

compatibility.For more information, please see the Technical Data page (p.18) of this manual, or sign

in APsystems website to obtain a solar panel list which can match with APsystems

Microinverters:www.APsystems.com

Model Number

AC grid

PV Module

Module Connector

QS1

50Hz/230V

60,72Cell

MC-4 Type or Customize

QS1 Installation/User Manual

4.APsystems Microinverter System Installation

A PV system using APsystems Microinverters is simple to install. Each Microinverter easily mounts

on the PV racking, directly beneath the PV module(s). Low voltage DC wires connect from the PV

module directly to the Microinverter, eliminating the risk of high DC voltage. Installation MUST

comply with local regulations and technical rules.

①Perform all electrical installations in accordance with local electrical codes.

②Be aware that only qualified professionals should install and/or replace

APsystems Microinverters.

③Before installing or using an APsystems Microinverter, please read all

instructions and warnings in the technical documents and on the APsystems

Microinverter system itself as well as on the PV array.

④Be aware that installation of this equipment includes the risk of electric shock.

⑤Do not touch any live parts in the system, including the PV array, when the

system has been connected to the electrical grid.

Strongly recommend to install Surge protection Devices in the dedicated meter box.

4.1 Additional Installation components from APsystems

Bus Cable End Cap (sold separately)

Bus Cable Y-CONN Cap (sold separately)

Bus Cable Unlock Tool (sold separately)

4.2 Required Parts and Tools from you

In addition to your PV array and its associated hardware, you will need the following items:

An AC connection junction box

Mounting hardware suitable for module racking

Sockets and wrenches for mounting hardware

QS1 Installation/User Manual

4.APsystems Microinverter System Installation

4.3 Installation Procedures

4.3.1 Step 1 - Verify the grid voltage to match with microinverter rating

4.3.2 Step 2 - The AC bus distribution

a. The AC bus is arranged at the proper position of the microinverter.

b. One end of the AC bus access junction box into power grid.

c. Wire the conductors of the AC bus: L - BROWN; N - BLUE.

Wiring colour code can be different according local regulation, check all the wires of the

installation before connecting to the AC bus to be sure they match.Wrong cabling can

damage irreparably the microinverters, such an issue is not covered by the warranty.

4.3.3 Step 3 - Attach the APsystems Microinverters to the racking

a. Mark the location of the microinverter on the rack, with respect to the PV module junction

box or any other obstructions.

b. Mount one microinverter at each of these locations using hardware recommended by your

module racking vendor.when install microinverter, grounding washer

Must be facing the racking.

Figure 2

Prior to installing any of the microinverters, verify that the utility Voltage at the point

of common connection matches the voltage rating on microinverter label.

Do not place the inverters (including DC and AC connectors) Where exposed to the sun,

rain or snow, even gap between modules. Allow a minimum of 3/4’’(1.5cm.) between

the roof and the bottom of the Microinverter to allow proper air flow. The racking

of install microinverter must be reliably grounding.

4.3.4 Step 4 - Ground the system.

grounding washer

QS1 Installation/User Manual

4.APsystems Microinverter System Installation

4.3.5 Stpe 5 - Connect the APsystems microinverter to AC bus cable

Push the microinverter AC connector to the trunk cable connector. Listen for the "Click".

Figure 3

Best Practice: Use the Bus Cable Unlock Tool of AC Bus to split the connectors.

Figure 4

AC connector interface as follows. Cover any unused connectors with Bus Cable Y-CONN Cap to

protect the connectors.

Figure 5 Figure 6

4.3.6 Step 6 - Install a AC bus protective end cap at the end of AC bus cable

a. Strip cable jacket. c. Insert the wires into the cable clamps.

b. Insert the cable end into the seal. d. Rotate the nut with 3.3N·m until the

latching mechanism meets the base.

Figure 7

Click

Nut

Seal

Body

QS1 Installation/User Manual

4.APsystems Microinverter System Installation

4.3.7 Step 7 - Connect APsystems Microinverters to the PV Modules

Figure 8

If the DC connector is not connected with the PV module,you need to remove the dust

cap,and cover the protection cap.

When plugging in the DC cables, the microinverter should immediately blink green three

times. This will happen as soon as the cables are plugged in and will show that the

microinverter is functioning correctly. This entire check function will start and end within 5

seconds of plugging in the unit, so pay careful attention to these lights when connecting the

DC cables.

Double check to make sure all of the AC and DC wiring has been correctly installed. Ensure

that none of the AC and/or DC wires are pinched or damaged. Make sure that all of the

junction boxes are properly closed.

4.3.8 Step 8 - Complete the APsystems installation map

Fill in the APsystems Registration Cards, which provide system information and the installation

map. Feel free to provide your own layout if a larger or more intricate installation map is required.

The layout map provided is designed to accomodate labels in vertical or horizontal orientation to

meet all the field PV connections.

a. Each APsystems Microinverter has removable serial number labels.

b. Peel labels off, affix one to the respective location on the APsystems installation map,and fill

in 1,2 in the label below,according to the layout on the roof.

c. The other one serial number label, posted on the solar module frame is easy to view the

position.

Figure 9

QS1 Installation/User Manual

4.APsystems Microinverter System Installation

①. The layout of the mocroinverters' serial numbers on the warranty card is only suitable for

general arrangement.

②. Warranty card is located in Appendix last page of this manual.

③. You can use Scanning Gun or mobile phone to scan the serial numbers on the map when set

ECU (see ECU manual).

④. Using APsystems' mobile app ArrayApp can make the installation and registration

much more simple.

1 2 34 5 6 7 89 10 11 12 13 14 15 1716 18 19 20 2221

APsystems Microinverter&Energy Communication Unit

Warranty Card

The APsystems Installation Map is a diagram of the physical location of each microinverter in your PV installation.

Each APsystems microinverter has a removable serial number label located on the mounting plate. Pee l the label

and affix it to the respective location on the APsystems installation map.

Installation Map Template

To register your APsystems microinverter, please mail this warranty registration card to: emasupport@altenergy-power com.

B A B A B A

QS1 Installation/User Manual

5.APsystems microinverter system operating instructions

To operate the APsystems microinverter PV system:

1. Turn ON the AC circuit breaker on each microinverter AC branch circuit.

2. Turn ON the main utility-grid AC circuit breaker. Your system will start producing power after a

two-minute waiting time.

3. The units should start blinking green every 2 seconds five minutes after turning on the AC circuit

breaker. This means they are producing power normally, but have not yet connected to the ECU.

After the ECU has been plugged in,setup acknowledges the Microinverters, they will start to blink

green every 10 seconds.

4. Plug in the ECU and follow the instructions according to the manual for the ECU.

5. The APsystems Microinverters will start to send performance data over ZigBee to the ECU. The

time required for all the Microinverters in the system to report to the ECU will vary with the

number of Microinverters in the system. You can verify proper operation of the APsystems

Microinverters via the ECU. See the ECU Installation and Operation Manual for more

information.

QS1 Installation/User Manual

6.Troubleshooting

Qualified personnel can use the following troubleshooting steps if the PV system does not operate

correctly:

6.1 Status Indications and Error Reporting

6.1.1 Start up LED

One quick red light followed by three short green blinks when DC power is first applied to the

Microinverter indicates a successful Microinverter startup.

6.1.2 Operation LED

Flashing Slow Green (10 sec. gap) - Producing power and communicating with ECU

Flashing Fast Green (2 sec. gap) - Producing power and not communicating with ECU over

60mins

Flashing Red - Not producing power

Steady Red - Electrode assembly ground fault protection

6.1.3 GFDI Error

A solid red LED indicates the Microinverter has detected a Ground Fault Detector Interrupter

(GFDI) error in the PV system. Unless the GFDI error has been cleared, the LED will remain red

and the ECU will keep reporting the fault.After the ground fault error is fixed, follow the

instructions in the ECU Installation and Operation Manual to clear this GFDI error reporting.

6.1.4 Other Faults

All other faults are reported to the ECU. Refer to the ECU Installation and Operation Manual for

a list of additional faults and troubleshooting procedures.

Only qualified personnel should directly handle the APsystems microinverter.

1. Never disconnect the DC wire connectors under load. Ensure that no current

is flowing in the DC wires prior to disconnecting.

2. Always disconnect AC power before disconnecting the PV module wires from

the APsystems Microinverter.

3. The APsystems Microinverter is powered by PV module DC power.

AFTER disconnecting the DC power, when reconnecting the PV modules to

the microinverter, be sure to watch for the three short LED flashes.

QS1 Installation/User Manual

6.Troubleshooting

6.2 Troubleshooting a non-operating APsystems Microinverter

There are two possible overall areas of trouble:

A. The Microinverter itself may be having problems.

B. The Microinverter itself is working fine but it is having trouble communicating with the ECU.

The items below refer to Microinverter issues, not communication issues (addressed in the ECU

manual).

A quick way to tell whether the issue is the Microinverter or communication problem with the ECU:

1. Diagnosing from the Microinverter: A red light – either blinking or solid on the

Microinverter, or no light at all. No light, or a red light, means it is definitely a Microinverter

problem.

2. Diagnosing from the ECU:

a. No-Data-Display: This is probably a communication issue- not a Microinverter problem.

b. Problems with erratic display: Data is displayed for some period and then no data is

displayed: most likely a communication issue.

c. 0 watts, or 2 watts: Possibly a Microinverter problem

d. Erratic data display that is not coordinating with data displays from other units: most

likely a Microinverter problem.

To troubleshoot a non-operating APsystems Microinverter, Follow

the steps below in order:

1. Verify the utility voltage and frequency are within ranges shown in the Technical Data

section of this manual.

2. Check the connection to the utility grid. Verify utility power is present at the inverter in

question by removing AC, then DC power. Never disconnect the DC wires while the

microinverter is producing power. Re-connect the DC module connectors and watch for

three short LED flashes.

3. Check the AC branch circuit interconnection between all the microinverters. Verify each

inverter is energized by the utility grid as described in the previous step.

4. Make sure that any AC breaker are functioning properly and are closed.

5. Check the DC connections between the microinverter and the PV module.

6. Verify the PV module DC voltage is within the allowable range shown in the Technical Data

of this manual.

7. If the problem persists, please call APsystems Customer Support.

Do not attempt to repair the APsystems Microinverter. If troubleshooting methods

fail, please return the microinverter to your distributor for replacement.

6.3 Maintenance

No need to Maintenance.

QS1 Installation/User Manual

7.Replace a microinverter

Follow the procedure to replace a failed APsystems Microinverter

A. Disconnect the APsystems Microinverter from the PV Module, in the order shown below:

1. Disconnect the AC by turning off the branch circuit breaker.

2. Disconnect the inverter AC connector from the AC Bus.

3. Disconnect the PV module DC wire connectors from the microinverter.

4. Remove the Microinverter from the PV array racking.

B. Install a replacement Microinverter to the rack. Remember to observe the flashing LED light as

soon as the new Microinverter is plugged into the DC cables.

C. Connect the AC cable of the replacement Microinverter to the AC bus.

D. Close the branch circuit breaker, and verify operation of the replacement Microinverter.

QS1 Installation/User Manual

8.Technical Data

①. Be sure to verify the voltage and current specifications of your PV module match with

those of the Microinverter. Please refer to the datasheet or usermanual which can be

download from APsystems website www.APsystems.com.

②. You must match the DC operating voltage range of the PV module with the allowable

input voltage range of the APsystems Microinverter.

③. The maximum open circuit voltage of the PV module must not exceed the specified

maximum input voltage of the APsystems

QS1 Installation/User Manual

8.1 QS1 Microinverter Datasheet

Output Data (AC)

Maximum Continuous Output Power

1200W

Nominal Output Voltage/Range

230V/195.5-253V

Adjustable Output Voltage Range

160V-278V

Maximum Continuous Output Current

5.22A

Nominal Output Frequency/Range

50Hz/49-51Hz

Adjustable Output Frequency Range

45.1Hz-54.9Hz

Power Factor

>0.99

Total Harmonic Distortion

<3%

Efficiency

Peak Efficiency

96.5%

Nominal MPPT Efficiency

99.5%

Night Power Consumption

30mW

*APsystems online Energy Management Analysis (EMA) platform

Region

APAC

Model

QS1-LK

Input Data (DC)

MPPT Voltage Range

22V-48V

Operation Voltage Range

16V-55V

Maximum Input Voltage

60V

Start up Voltage

20V

Maximum Input Current

12A×4

Mechanical Data

Operating Ambient Temperature Range

-40°C to +65°C

Storage Temperature Range

-40°C to +85°C

Dimensions (W x H x D)

281mm ×231mm ×41.3mm

Weight

4.5kg

AC BUS Maximum Current

20A

Enclosure Environmental Rating

Outdoor - IP67

Pollution Degree Classification

PD3

Cooling

Natural Convection - No Fans

Operate relative humidity range

4%~100%

Maximum altitude

<2000m

Overvoltage Category

OVC II For PV Input Circuit, OVC III For Mains Circuit

Features & Compliance

Communication

Wireless

Transformer Design

High Frequency Transformers, Galvanically Isolated

Monitoring

Via EMA* Online Portal

Warranty

10 Years Standard ; 20 Years Optional

Certificate&Compliance

Grid Connection Compliance

IEC 61727

Specifications subject to change without notice - please ensure you are using the most recent update found at www.APsystems.com

2018/7/26 Rev1.0

QS1 Installation/User Manual

9.Wiring Diagram

Figure10

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APsystems QS1 User manual

APsystems QS1 User manual

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